The deadline for a data breach settlement involving Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. is fast approaching. Millions of Americans may be eligible for up to $6,000 in compensation, but they must act quickly. The deadline to file a claim is Monday, February 10th.
Gallagher Data Breach: What Happened?
Between June 3rd and September 26th, 2020, Arthur J. Gallagher & Co., a global insurance brokerage and risk management firm, experienced a significant data breach. Hackers accessed sensitive personal information, including Social Security numbers, personal health information, usernames, passwords, medical information, biometric data, and credit card details. Alarmingly, those affected were not notified until almost a year after the breach.
Who Is Eligible for Compensation?
Individuals who were clients of Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. between June and September of 2020 may be eligible to file a claim. However, eligibility for compensation requires proof of monetary damages resulting from the breach. This can include expenses incurred due to identity theft, credit monitoring services, or other financial losses directly related to the compromised data.
How to File a Claim
Claims can be submitted online through the settlement website at ajgdatasettlement.com before the February 10th deadline. Alternatively, claims can be mailed, provided they are postmarked on or before February 10th. Supporting documentation, such as bank statements, receipts for identity theft protection services, and bills, should be included with the claim to substantiate financial losses.
Significance of the Settlement
This settlement underscores the increasing prevalence of data breaches and the vulnerability of personal information, even within large, established companies. As Christopher E. Roberts, a class action attorney at Butsch Roberts & Associates LLC, noted, this case highlights the vital need for robust data security measures. Even a global insurance brokerage like Gallagher can fall victim to cyberattacks, emphasizing the importance of proactive data protection strategies.
Compensation Details
While the maximum compensation amount is $6,000, including coverage for credit monitoring and identity theft insurance, the actual amount received may vary depending on the number of valid claims submitted. The final amount will be determined after the deadline and the processing of all eligible claims.
Conclusion: Act Now to Protect Your Rights
While not the largest data breach in history, the Gallagher incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing risks to personal data. Affected individuals are urged to act swiftly and file their claims before the February 10th deadline to potentially receive compensation for damages incurred as a result of the breach.
